An Analysis of Divine Command Metaethics

Abstract

Divine command metaethics comes in various forms. In this paper I examine three previously proposed relationships between morality and divine commands - Analysis, Causation, and Reduction - and determine that the Reduction view is most likely because it provides the best account of divine authority. I also seek to defend the view as a whole against some of the perennial objections against it, namely the arbitrariness objection, by arguing that God necessarily desires the well being of his creation.